Mauna Kea Summit Tour H3
Island of Hawaii "The Big Island"
DESCRIPTION:
For a less traditional Hawaiian vacation experience, imagine gazing at the
heavens from atop the summit of the world's highest mountain where the
atmosphere is crisp and clear. There, the mysteries of the universe unfold under
a blanket of stars, planets, galaxies and nebulas. The world-famous astronomical
site at the summit and Ellison Onizuka Visitor Information Station is our final
destination. Due to the altitude and the absence of light pollution, Mauna Kea
is a prime location for telescope viewing of the Hawaiian skies. Our
knowledgeable guides explain astronomy and navigational skills developed by
ancient Hawaiians who used the stars and planets to navigate the seas, a
technique still in use today. And the Ellison Onizuka Station has a wealth of
computers, telescopes and research materials available for use by its guests.
Tours are conducted in small groups traveling
in 4x4 vans that originate in Kona, leaving late in the day for your date with
the stars! All tours include hot beverages, boxed dinner, snacks and use of
telescopes and jackets. Warm clothing and comfortable walking shoes are highly
recommended.
Tour: - Our tour takes us first
to the Ellison Onizuka Visitor Information Station at 9,200' elevation where
visitors learn to read star charts and enjoy access to the computers and
telescopes. We then eat dinner before heading to the summit to view the sunset
where 90% of the northern and southern hemispheres' sky is visible. After the
view at the top guests return to the Center for more stargazing aided by the use
of telescopes. Tour includes hot beverages, boxed dinner, snacks and use of
telescopes and jackets.
Tours are scheduled Tuesday, Thursday and
Saturday on a space available basis. Daily departure varies depending on season
and location of hotel. Must call for departure schedule on your day of tour.
Tour is approximately 7 hours in length.
Warning: High altitude (above 9200 feet)
can be dangerous to persons with heart and respiratory problems, children under
16 years, obese individuals, persons who SCUBA dived with 24 hours and pregnant
women.
